Mumbai: Zee Cinema will telecast the direct-to-TV release of the film "Haathi Mere Saathi" followed by a streaming release on OTT platform Eros Now. The film will air on 18 September.

Written and directed by Prabu Solomon, the film stars Rana Daggubati, Pulkit Samrat, Shriya Pilgaonkar, Zoya Hussain, and Anant Mahadevan.

Adapted from a 1971 classic starring Rajesh Khanna, "Haathi Mere Saathi" explores the bonds between humans and animals. The film traces the narrative of a man fighting for the rights of elephants and the ecosystem.

“The pandemic disrupted the usual ways of presenting any work of art and led us to scout for ways to manoeuvre through the new normal. Unique initiatives like Direct-to-TV releases of films is our way of setting up a new path," said Zee Hindi movies cluster, business head, Ruchir Tiwari. "Television is a medium of entertainment that is accessible by a majority of the people. And we always attempt to bring the latest and blockbuster films for our audiences."

"Haathi Mere Saathi is amongst those rare projects that can educate, entertain, and inspire the viewers simultaneously. We are delighted to partner with Zee Cinema for a Direct-to-TV release. Its popularity across a diversified audience base spanning various age groups and countries will give the film the required reach," said Eros International Media, chief operating officer, Kumar Ahuja.

“The film draws light on some serious issues faced by these communities and the thorough dedication to the cause. I feel privileged to be a part of a project like this," said Rana Daggubati. "It is an important film and story that needs to be told and it’s great that through its Direct-to-TV release on Zee Cinema and post-release streaming on Eros Now, it will reach audiences across the nation."

“When I first thought of this story, I had a clear vision of what I wanted to convey. I wanted to put across a germ of thought with a potential to ignite progressive conversations around the cause of protecting elephants and nature," said Prabhu Solomon. "The film directly releasing on Zee Cinema followed by online streaming on Eros Now will help the film penetrate across different parts of the country."